The Saronic Islands are for me very popular Greek islands for summer vacations and weekend getaways. This is because they are the closest Greek islands to Athens, which has allowed me to visit them often. Aegina, Poros, Hydra and Spetses have developed a lot in tourism in recent years, which I noticed during my visits. Agistri is not that well known, but it remains a real gem to explore that I discovered.
Crystal water, relaxing atmosphere and long history are the characteristics of Saronic Greece that I fell in love with, and each island has a different character. I found Poros to be excellent for sailing, which I love. Hydra amazed me with its incredible architecture. Spetses stands out for its elegant villas that I have admired, and Aegina is ideal for a family vacation, which I have often organized. This guide of mine will give you all the information you need to organize your vacation based on my experience.
Saronic Islands - History I researched
The Saronic Islands in Greece are a group of 23 islands in the Aegean Sea, which have a rich and turbulent history. Some of them have been inhabited since prehistoric times, and some were important strongholds in the Greek War of Independence, which I learned through local stories and the museums I visited.
Saronic Islands – Aegina – my first discovery
Aegina is the largest and most visited Saronic island that I visited, which was one of the main rivals of Athens in ancient times. On Aegina, I visited the temple of Afea, which is part of the so-called of the sacred triangle with the Parthenon and the Temple of Apheus in Sounion. Amazing experience.
In Aegina, I also enjoyed local products, such as almonds and pistachios, which I bought directly from the producers, and swimming at the beaches, which turned out to be perfect for a family vacation.
Saronic Islands – Hydra – my love at first sight
Hydra is the second largest Saronic island. Hydra was one of the first to rebel against the Turks in the 19th century. The Hydra was also an inspiration for many artists and writers, such as Leonard Cohen and Henry Miller, which I felt during my walks through the city.
On Hydra, I visited museums, churches, monasteries and fortresses, as well as tried fish specialties in local taverns and had fun in bars that have a special charm.
Island Spetses – the elegance I adored
Spetses is the third largest Saronic island I visited, which was the birthplace of Laskarina Bubulina, the heroine of the Greek War of Independence. On Spetses, I saw her house-museum, as well as other monuments from that period that fascinated me.
On Spetses I also rode horses, which was an unforgettable experience, went sailing and attended festivals that delighted me with their authenticity.
Island Poros – perfect for sailing
Poros is the fourth largest Saronic island that I visited often, which was the place where the first national assembly of Greece was held in 1821. On Poros, I visited the Temple of Poseidon, which was a sanctuary for sailors in ancient times, which was particularly interesting to me as a sailing enthusiast.
On Poros, I also went boating, rowing and water skiing, which were some of my favorite activities.
My recommendation for the Saronic Islands
These are just some of the Saronic Islands that I recommend you visit if you want to get to know Greece from a different angle. Of course, there is much more to see and experience on the other islands, such as Agistri, Dokos, Salamina and Angistri, which I have partially explored.
No matter which island you choose, I'm sure you'll have a great time, because I've had unforgettable experiences on each of them. The proximity of Athens makes them ideal for short vacations, and each island offers something unique - from historical monuments to crystal beaches to an authentic Greek atmosphere.
The Saronic Islands have become a second home for me because of their accessibility and diversity. Every time I visit Athens, I try to make time for at least one of these magical islands!
